Machine Description

Jacks Open, released by Bally in 1977, represents one of the last electro-mechanical pinball machines produced during the pivotal transition period to solid-state technology. The machine's theme revolves around poker hands, particularly featuring jacks, making it part of the popular card game-themed pinballs of the 1970s.

The playfield design incorporated classic elements of the late EM era, featuring drop targets, pop bumpers, and spinning targets that would register different card combinations. The scoring system was built around poker hands, with players attempting to complete various card combinations for escalating point values. The backglass artwork typically displayed playing cards and casino imagery, consistent with the gaming theme that was popular in that era.

As one of the final EM machines produced before the industry's wholesale shift to solid-state electronics, Jacks Open represents an important historical transition point in pinball history. The game's relatively straightforward but engaging ruleset exemplified the best aspects of electro-mechanical design philosophy, where mechanical precision and player skill were paramount. While not as widely known as some other machines of its era, it remains a sought-after example of late EM engineering and design.